SERIAN: More than just a competition, the 2025 Mini Southern Zone Local Authorities (PBT) Sports Carnival here served as a platform to foster camaraderie and collaboration among local government officers from across the region.
Held on Wednesday (Aug 6), the carnival brought together staff from nine district councils, merged into six contingents, to compete in seven sporting events: darts, carrom, volleyball, futsal, badminton, netball and sepak takraw.
Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus, who officiated the event, noted the deeper purpose of the programme.
“Sports carnivals like this promote not just physical well-being, but also the spirit of teamwork, unity and mutual respect — all essential values for those serving at the grassroots level.”
The newly established councils of Siburan, Gedong and Sebuyau were integrated into existing contingents — Siburan with Serian, and Gedong and Sebuyau with Simunjan — further reflecting efforts to enhance inter-council collaboration.
John also noted that the carnival plays a crucial role in strengthening working relationships between different local authorities, which are vital to delivering effective services to the people.
“Local authorities are the backbone of service delivery. That is why the values of sportsmanship, discipline and integrity must be continuously cultivated among local authority personnel.”
He expressed confidence that the bonds formed during such events would translate into better cooperation and communication across districts.
“I hope this carnival goes beyond competition. Let it be a reminder that we are one team — united in purpose, serving the rakyat.”
